If you’re looking for a more local and authentic experience in Osaka, head to Ishikiri Shopping Street in Higashi-Osaka. Located along the path to the Ishikiri Tsurugiya Shrine, this retro-style street offers delicious food, traditional sweets, fortune-telling, and a uniquely Japanese pilgrimage ritual.

Getting There:

• Nearest Station: Kintetsu Nara Line, Ishikiri Station

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What to Eat on Ishikiri Shopping Street

• Yomogi Dango from Ikutaya (300 yen)
  Freshly grilled mugwort rice cake, served hot. A great way to start your walk.

• Omikuji Senbei from Hougyokudo (120 yen)
  Break the cracker to reveal a fortune inside. A fun and traditional souvenir.

• Oden from Murataya (150 yen each)
  Classic Kansai-style simmered daikon, egg, and potato. Perfect for chilly days.

• Ishikiri-san Sweets from Suzuya (450 yen)
  Soft rice cakes with sweet filling. Beautifully branded with “Ishikiri” characters. Great for gifts.

• Sansai Okowa (Mountain Vegetable Sticky Rice) from Baigetsudo (around 300–500 yen)
  Hearty and full of natural flavor. They offer single-portion sizes for solo visitors.

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Fortune-Telling & Retro Charm

Ishikiri is also known as the “Town of Fortune-telling”, with many shops offering palm reading, tarot, astrology, and more. You’ll also find the Great Ishikiri Buddha statue on the way.

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Hyakudo Mairi: The 100-Times Pilgrimage

At the end of the shopping street, you’ll arrive at Ishikiri Shrine, a sacred site dedicated to healing.
One of its famous practices is Hyakudo Mairi, where visitors walk between two sacred points up to 100 times to offer prayers.

• You can decide your own number (not necessarily 100)
• There’s even a string counter available at the shrine office
• It took me about 1 hour 40 minutes to complete 100 laps (don’t forget to travel light!)

Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, leave your luggage in a coin locker, and bring water.

Summary

Ishikiri Shopping Street offers a rare chance to experience retro Japanese street culture, sacred pilgrimage, and tasty local food in one visit. It’s a deep local experience in Osaka, far from the usual tourist spots. Perfect for day trips or those seeking meaningful travel.